Montana

The grandeur of the Rocky Mountains meets the open grasslands of the high plains in the state of Montana. From the snow-capped peaks and glaciers in the west to the flatlands where bison once roamed, Montana is a thing of beauty. Begin in the northwest, the home of Glacier National Park, and watch for grizzly bears, black bears, deer, elk, moose, and mountain goats. Hike along an alpine path or drive the scenic Going-to-the-Sun road.

Further south, the peaks become foothills divided by grasslands. Try birdwatching here for hawks, falcons, and mountan plovers, or explore the Lewis and Clark caves. In the northeast you'll find water sports on Fort Peck Lake and wildlife viewing at the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge. Look for jackrabbits, prairie dogs, pronghorns, elk, and mountain lions. In the south, explore colorful river canyons while enjoying a day of swimming, boating, or fishing beneath the clear Montana sky.